Q&A: Norwich chamber leader Todd Postler

When Todd Postler took over as chairman of the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors earlier this year, he promised the organization would continue to grow its membership and expand its footprint in the region. And he told The Bulletin its objectives are being met.

When Todd Postler took over as chairman of the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors earlier this year, he promised the organization would continue to grow its membership and expand its footprint in the region. And he told The Bulletin its objectives are being met.

Q: It’s been nearly a year since the chamber introduced Ben Lathrop as its new president and CEO. What do you think of the job he’s done?

A: Ben hit the ground running when he started in August of 2012. It seems like a year with all the projects now in the works and the membership that has grown. Ben has exceeded expectations. He is at nearly every event and very visible in the surrounding communities. He has built alliances with business owners and public officials that highlight our success and have created an atmosphere of excitement and positive energy in our area. He is more than we expected, and we look forward to Ben’s leadership over the next several years.

Q: Do you think the chamber’s new traveling tourism kiosk will boost its profile and bring more commerce to the area?

A: Another great idea that Ben brought to reality with the partnership between American Ambulance and several other businesses. We do think this will be a successful endeavor. The greater Norwich area has the most historical locations in the state, and it is overdue that we highlight this asset. We have a specific plan to promote tourism in the area.

Q: Recently, it was announced team sizes for June’s dragon boat races have been altered, mainly for safety reasons. Do you agree with the move?

A: I do agree. Every sporting event has some risk, and last year we had an unfortunate situation caused by weather conditions. The event is about promoting the harbor and boating. It is not about making money. Safety is always paramount.

Q: What is the biggest challenge facing the chamber right now?

A: Being able to balance services and programs that support our continued growth, and continuing to retain our existing businesses. We believe we are positioned and staffed properly to be successful. However, as you grow members, you need to evaluate how best to staff and support the entire membership.

Q: How is the organization able to continue adding members despite a economy that has not been business-friendly the past several years?

A: This certainly has been a challenge. However, we have focused on retention of our existing base. This is a partnership. Businesses have to be successful for the chamber to be successful. We have requested and received feedback from our member on what needs that we can fill for them. Many of our programs reflect these requests. We have been weathering the business climate about a well as we can. Frankly, we have been quite happy and surprised with the membership.